Donald “Don” E. Jones
Rochester, VT – Donald “Don” E. Jones, 94, died peacefully on
September 8th, 2025, at Menig Nursing Home.
Don was born on November 20, 1930, in Rochester, VT, the son of Arthur
and Lillian (Harvey) Jones.
Don was a lifelong Rochester resident and an active member of the
community. He graduated from Rochester High School, class of 1948. Don
attended Becker Junior College in Worcester, MA, and graduated from
Lyndon State College, class of 1952. Don married the love of his life,
Joyce Severy, in Rochester on August 2nd 1952. He served in the US
Army, 101st Airborne, during the Korean War.
After completing his military service, Don began his teaching career.
He did his graduate studies at UVM and received a master’s degree in
education administration from the University of Connecticut. He worked
as a teacher, principal, and administrator in Shelburn and South
Royalton, VT. After a long and successful career in education he
retired from the Orange-Windsor Supervisory Union as the
superintendent in 1982.
Although Don was technically retired, he still kept an active
lifestyle, he switched up careers by joining the Century 21 Mill Stone
Agency. He was also a member of various organizations, Rochester
Planning Commission, Gifford Medical Center board of directors, and
the Central Vermont Board of Realtors. When Don wasn’t busy working or
attending meetings of his various affiliations, he enjoyed spending
time with Joyce, his boys, and grandchildren. Don took great pride in
his collection of restored antique tractors and hay loader.
Survivors include his wife of 73 years, Joyce Jones of Rochester, VT;
sons Brian (Cynthia) Jones of South Royalton, VT, and Bruce (Doreen)
Jones of Rochester, VT; 5 grandchildren, Tyler (Holly) Jones of
Harrisburg, NC, Morgan (Andrew) Nida of Reidsville, NC, Kyle
(Katherine Ma) Jones of Sunnyvale, CA, Kathleen (Johnathan)
Abreu-Jones of NYC, and Emily Jones (Jason Lamphere) of Seattle, WA;
and by 4 great-grandchildren, Madelyn Jones, Lyla Jones, Riley Jones,
all from Harrisburg, NC, and Kaia Jones of Sunnyvale, CA.
He was predeceased by both parents and brother Harvey Jones of Essex
Jct., VT.
Don’s family would like to thank the medical teams at the VA in both
White River Jct. and Rutland. The care and comfort Don received at
Menig Nursing Home was exemplary, special thanks to the entire staff.
A family graveside ceremony will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery in
Rochester.
Arrangements are under the direction of Day Funeral Home.